If you’re arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), you’ll have several options for getting connected. Many travelers buy a local SIM card after landing, while others install a travel eSIM before departure and connect immediately.
Quick answer: you can buy a prepaid SIM card at Shanghai Pudong Airport, but passport registration is required. For most international travelers, installing a China eSIM before departure is the fastest and most convenient option.
Top China eSIMs
Can You Buy a SIM Card at Shanghai Pudong Airport?
Yes.
Shanghai Pudong Airport has telecom service counters in the arrivals area where international visitors can purchase prepaid SIM cards.
You will normally need to present your passport for identity verification before the SIM card can be activated.
Mobile Operators Available
| Operator | Tourist SIM Available | 5G |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Yes | Yes |
| China Unicom | Yes | Yes |
| China Telecom | Yes | Yes |
Documents Required
Chinese regulations require real-name registration for all SIM cards.
You’ll usually need:
- Your passport.
- Your presence at the telecom counter.
- Identity verification.
Typical Tourist SIM Prices
| Package | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| Basic prepaid package | Approximately ¥80–150 |
| Large data package | Approximately ¥150–300 |
| 5G tourist plans | Varies by operator |
Available plans change regularly depending on the operator.
SIM Card vs China eSIM
| Travel eSIM | Airport SIM Card |
|---|---|
| Install before departure | Buy after arrival |
| No physical SIM swap | Replace physical SIM |
| No airport queue | Possible waiting time |
| Keep your home SIM | Usually remove your SIM |
| Ready after landing | Activation required at counter |
Why Many Travelers Prefer an eSIM
A travel eSIM lets you prepare everything before your trip.
- No airport queues.
- No SIM card replacement.
- Internet immediately after landing.
- Keep your existing number.
- Ideal for maps, messaging and ride-hailing apps.
Recommended China eSIM Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Mobile Data | China eSIM |
| Calls | Primary SIM |
| SMS | Primary SIM |
| Data Roaming | ON |
| Primary SIM Roaming | OFF |
| Automatic Data Switching | OFF |
| Network Selection | Automatic |
| APN | data.esim if required |
Coverage Around Shanghai
Mobile coverage is excellent throughout:
- Shanghai Pudong Airport.
- The Bund.
- Nanjing Road.
- Lujiazui.
- People’s Square.
- Yu Garden.
- Shanghai Metro.
- Hongqiao Railway Station.
Travel Tips
- Install your China eSIM before departure.
- Download offline maps.
- Install WeChat and Alipay.
- Save your hotel address in Chinese.
- Carry a power bank.
- Keep screenshots of your reservations.
Related China Travel Guides
- China eSIM
- Best eSIM for China
- Buy China eSIM
- How to Use China eSIM
- China eSIM APN Settings
- WeChat for Tourists
- Alipay for Tourists
- Best Apps for China Travel
FAQ
Can tourists buy a SIM card at Shanghai Pudong Airport?
Yes. International visitors can purchase prepaid SIM cards from telecom counters after passport verification.
Do I need my passport?
Yes. Passport registration is normally required when purchasing a SIM card in China.
Is an eSIM easier than buying a SIM card?
For most travelers, yes. Installing an eSIM before departure lets you connect immediately after landing without visiting a telecom counter.
Can I keep my home SIM?
Yes. Most Dual SIM phones allow you to keep your primary SIM for calls and SMS while using a China eSIM for mobile data.
Do I need Data Roaming enabled?
Yes. Enable Data Roaming on your China eSIM. If manual APN configuration is required, use data.esim.
Will I have internet immediately after landing?
Yes. If your eSIM is installed before departure, your phone can connect to a supported network within minutes of arrival.
Final Recommendation
Buying a SIM card at Shanghai Pudong Airport is a good option if you need a local number, but it requires passport registration and extra time after your flight. For most international visitors, a China eSIM offers a much smoother experience, allowing you to get online as soon as you land.
Install your China eSIM before departure, enable Data Roaming after arrival, keep your eSIM selected for Mobile Data and use data.esim if manual APN configuration is required.